With Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday in 2026, you have the whole day to celebrate! Whether you’re craving an outdoor adventure, a cozy arts-filled afternoon, a craft beer excursion, or a dressed-up date night, Columbia offers something to match your vibe.
Romantic Experiences for Couples
Valentine’s Day and jazz music have long been intertwined, which is why you’d be remiss not to visit Chayz Lounge. Be sure to order up a cocktail or a red velvet cheesecake.
For the wine enthusiasts, visit Lula Drake Wine Parlour, one of our many James Beard recognized restaurants, for a unique glass while ordering up one of four charcuterie board options. All menus are seasonal, so view the menu here before you go.
For a more low-key kind of fun, queso and margaritas at Cantina 76 hit the spot, or you can lean into nostalgia with bar bites and pinball at Bang Back Pinball or keep things simple with a budget-friendly ice cream date at Rosewood Dairy Bar, Morelia Paletas (think high-quality, customizable popsicles) or Scoop of Heaven.
Art lovers can whittle a few hours away at the Columbia Museum of Art. It’s hard to be bored here with exhibits from Botticelli, Monet, and Warhol or follow a public art tour before settling in for dinner at MOA Korean Barbeque.
Outdoorsy couples can explore Congaree National Park’s old-growth forests, enjoy a canoe trip with Palmetto Outdoors where the views of Spanish moss hanging from Cypress and Oak trees is every bit as good as the quality time with your loved one. Did you work up an appetite? Order up some BBQ from James Beard recognized Chef Robbie Robinson at City Limits BBQ. You can’t go wrong with their Texas and Carolina BBQ from an all-wood burning pit and smoked meats.
Pro Tip: City Limits BBQ is only open Saturday 11-4 and Sunday 12-3. View their weekly menu here.
Galentine’s and Malentine’s Celebrations
Let’s get the day started off right with brunch at The Gourmet Shop. Might we suggest the brie and bacon croissant? Now that you’re fueled and caffeinated, it’s time to hit the town.
Ladies, did someone say, “Spa day!”? Only a 4 minutes walk from brunch, The Skinhouse is ready to meet all your needs from facials to brows and lashes to a scalp bar. You are sure to leave feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
For the guys, head over to South East Park for a round disc golf or a friendly game of pickle ball. Now that you’ve burned some energy, follow the locals to Tacos Nayarit and order up birria tacos and a Mexican Coke.
Finish off the day with live music, beer and cornhole at Steel Hands Brewing. Their rotating seasonal brews will have you trying more than one. Wash it down with a Pimento Cheese Hot Honey Fried Chicken Sandwich found on our Pimento Cheese Passport.
Solo Valentine’s Day
Who does not love treating themselves? Get thee to Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles for homemade soul food. We are talking seasoned friend chicken wings on top of a fluffy Belgian waffle.
Looking to get outdoors? Locals and savvy travelers alike enjoy walking the banks of the Congaree River at the Saluda Riverwalk or a stroll through the woods around the lake at Sesquicentennial State Park. If staying indoors is more your thing, make a pit stop at All Good Books where you will find quiet reading corners and maybe your new favorite book. Be sure to grab a coffee while you are there!
It's no secret that the heart of SC will have you longing to spend more than one day. View our hotel options here for the perfect Valentine's Day weekend getaway with your loved one.